Texas starting pitcher Derek Holland is pictured during the Los Angeles Angels vs. the Texas Rangers major league baseball game at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington on Saturday, September 28, 2013. (Louis DeLuca/Dallas Morning News)

Left-hander Derek Holland proclaimed himself ready for a minor league injury rehabilitation assignment, but the club continued to treat him cautiously.

General manager Jon Daniels and Washington each said Holland, recovering from offseason surgery on his left knee, showed improvement while going through fielding drills but is not fully ready for game competition. Washington said Holland appears to be thinking about the knee rather than reacting to the ball.

The next step for Holland will be a simulated game Saturday. Hitters will be encouraged to test Holland with bunts.

Daniels said there is more to gain from Holland pitching this season rather than focusing on next year.

“If there is a significant risk in him going out there, we won’t push it,” Daniels said. “He’s worked so hard to get to this point, unless he’s really in danger of reinjuring the knee, it’s hard to pull him off the field.”

Holland was unavailable for comment on the new plan. After the fielding session, Holland repeated his desire to start the rehab assignment and return to the majors.

“I want to be a part of this,” Holland said. “I want to do everything.”

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